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Martinez: Wigan players playing for semifinal spots

Wigan Athletic boss Roberto Martinez has told his players they're playing for places in the FA Cup semifinal line-up.

The Spaniard has left no-one in any doubt of the club's priority - survival in the top flight.

He said: "The moment you, as a player, lose your focus you lose any involvement in the cup so it is a very straightforward situation.

"What is important is now everyone has a unique opportunity, a great prize, to play at Wembley which is a great reward for any player in their career.

"Clearly every place is up in the air and the next three games in the league is going to be where the positions for Wembley are going to be decided.

He added: "The best way to prepare for Wembley is with your level in the league and I don't see it as a distraction at all - I see it as an opportunity for players to be rewarded with their good form in the league.

"Believe me, no-one will lose their focus here of what is the priority and that is the league.

"Our season, in many respects, starts now."

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